Refugee is a powerful word. One that conjures opposing emotions. For some it provokes feelings of fear and hate, for others the need for compassion, understanding, and empathy.

In this celebrated poem, “Refugees,” Brian Bilston tells both sides of the story by cleverly crafting a verse that can be read backward and forward to convey two opposing views. Brian Bilston is often described as the “Poet Laureate of Twitter” (now X) and this much admired poem, perfectly accompanied by artwork from illustrator, Jose Sanabria, is a wonderful way to explore this emotive issue as you realize that it’s not just the words that have been reversed!